Born in 1965, I became an SWL (LA-M 8498) at 12. My first QSO was on January 26, 1981, at 15, using CW with a 15 Watts output on the HF bands, contacting DL5JP on 40 meters at 20:05 UTC. At 16, I acquired the callsign LA5EBA (Class-A license), which I held for 27 years before reverting to my novice callsign in October 2008.
By age 17, I had completed my Radio Officer training and earned a 2nd class certificate on my 18th birthday. A year at sea led to a 1st class certificate. My career spanned roles as a radio operator in the Norwegian Coast Guard, with NATO for three years, and several years managing communications with Norwegian embassies in roughly 40 countries at the Norwegian Foreign Ministry. I also served as a radio technician and provided technical support domestically and internationally.
I conduct Radio Surveys on GMDSS installations, averaging 280 to 290 surveys yearly, issue Radio Certificates to Norwegian-flagged vessels, and perform surveys for classification societies like DNV, BV, RINA, Lloyds, and INSB. I also supervise practical exams for ROC and GOC candidates, awarding GMDSS operator certificates upon their success.
My HAM Radio activities and DX chasing are achieved without a beam. I'm active daily on all HF bands, focusing on CW, engaging in casual conversations and seeking new DXCC slots or entities. My equipment includes a 9A5N single lever, Begali paddle, J36 Chrome by I1QOD, Vibroplex Deluxe Bug, and a straight key.